Many gatherings revolve around food. Food brings us together, fosters connections, promotes a sense of community and encourages conversations. If you were to think about your favorite event or gathering, odds are, you remember the food.
Imagine your next gathering or event. Now imagine focusing on your event without the added stress of planning, shopping, cooking or presentation of food. This is exactly what DeJa Robinson, owner of The Board Gatherings, offers her clients.
Creating a Service
Robinson became interested in the culinary world as a child.
“My mom hosted several extravagant parties when I was growing up,” Robinson says. “She brought the ‘wow’ factor and I loved helping her decorate, cook and host. I also took many culinary classes in high school to grow my knowledge and learn techniques.”
The idea to start The Board Gatherings was inspired by her love of aesthetic food.
“I love pretty presentations of food. I also love a pretty table,” she says. “I started my business by offering charcuterie and tablescaping. I wanted to provide a hosting service to my clients so that they could focus on the reason behind their gathering.”
Ever-Evolving Business Model
Robinson decided to evolve her business in phases. Since starting her business, Robinson has added additional services to include picnics, grazing tables, a refrigerated charcuterie cart and workshops.
To take advantage of the natural beauty surrounding Colorado Springs, Robinson was inspired to add a picnic service. Clients may choose from a list of recommended outdoor spots or choose one of their own. Robinson arrives two hours early to set up a personalized table setting, floral arrangement, charcuterie and beverages. Additional add-ons like cake are also available. Robinson then leaves and awaits a text to come and clean up afterwards.
For large events, custom grazing tables were added. Clients can choose between flat lays or multileveled and can customize for baby showers, anniversaries, weddings, corporate events and holidays.
The refrigerated cart is perfect for customizable charcuterie boxes or curated pairings. Clients can build their own boxes or they can watch as a board is built in front of them.
Workshops were added for both private and public events. UVA Wine Bar utilizes the service for public events–typically, a drink, building a charcuterie board, and a discussion of wine pairings. Private events can be booked and customized for gatherings or corporate events.
Fresh and Local
Fresh ingredients are a priority for Robinson. All ingredients are purchased within 24 hours of an event.
“I build all of my boards around pairings. I will drive all over town for the perfect ingredients,” Robinson says. “As my business grows, I would like to include more ingredients from local growers and makers. It is important to me to support local and create relationships with fellow culinary businesses.”
Future Goals
Robinson has set goals for the future. Because her business has expanded and her clientele is growing, her next priority is hiring more help.
“I have been a one-woman show with family and friends helping out, as needed,” she says. “I am now fortunate to need more help as my business grows. My long-term goal includes eventually opening my own brick and mortar space so that I can add additional services.”
Website: https://www.theboardgatherings.com/
Instagram + Facebook: @TheBoardGatherings